The education ministry will be hiring independent quality surveyors to assess the repair work being carried out on schools impacted by Hurricane Beryl.

Education Minister Fayval Williams made the revelation on day 3 of the 60th Annual Conference of the Jamaica Teachers Association, now underway in Trelawny.

Some 352 schools suffered damage during the passage of Hurricane Beryl. 

The ministry has placed them into three priority groups based on the nature of repairs needed.

Priority 1 institutions suffered the greatest damage and need significant work if they are to reopen by September 2.      

102 schools are in this category.

Mrs. Williams noted that the ministry was forced to use emergency procurement procedures to get the work started on these schools. 

As such, the independent quality surveyors are necessary to ensure the ministry receives value for money.

The Education Minister added that work continues in earnest anticipation of the new academic year which begins on September 2.

The JTA 60th annual conference is being held under the theme: Preserving the Legacy: Remaining Relevant for the Future.